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self-reliance

noun

self-re·​li·​ance ˌself-ri-ˈlī-ənts How to pronounce self-reliance (audio)
Synonyms of self-reliancenext
: reliance on one's own efforts and abilities

Examples of self-reliance in a Sentence

some people don't achieve self-reliance until they're over 30 years old
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Policymakers have signaled a longer-term push to lift consumption and tech self-reliance but have avoided major new stimulus as the economy remains on track to meet its 5% growth target. Victor Loh, CNBC, 30 Nov. 2025 Aggressive tariffs and export controls have forced Xi to adapt his economic approach by diversifying China’s trade partners and even embracing some domestic private-sector companies that can contribute to Xi’s goal of technological self-reliance. Deng Yuwen, Foreign Affairs, 14 Nov. 2025 Written by bandmembers Wharff, Ryan Atchison and Garrett Howell, this song makes a stark reflection on the futility of self-reliance, while expressing gratefulness to a higher power for renewal. Jessica Nicholson, Billboard, 10 Nov. 2025 This quest for self-reliance is not just about economics but explicitly tied to national security. Shaoyu Yuan, The Conversation, 5 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for self-reliance

Word History

First Known Use

1668, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of self-reliance was in 1668

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Self-reliance.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/self-reliance. Accessed 5 Dec. 2025.

Kids Definition

self-reliance

noun
self-re·​li·​ance
ˌsel-fri-ˈlī-ənts
: trust in one's own efforts and abilities
self-reliant
-ənt
adjective

More from Merriam-Webster on self-reliance

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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